The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast
Join Kate Brownfield, ACC, ADHD Parent Coach, author, and host of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, as she interviews leading experts, professionals, and advocates in the ADHD community.
Created for parents raising children with ADHD, this podcast explores the many layers of ADHD parenting, including emotional regulation, executive function, school support, family dynamics, treatment options, and the everyday challenges of helping a child thrive.
Kate brings a compassionate, practical, and whole-child perspective to each conversation, helping parents feel more informed, less alone, and better equipped to support their child and family.
Learn more at https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Episodes
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Sunday Mar 02, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, host Kate Brownfield welcomes Dr. Damon Korb, a developmental and behavioral pediatrician, founder of the Center for Developing Minds, and author of Raising an Organized Child.
Dr. Korb shares his expertise on executive functioning, ADHD, and how parents can foster organization, planning, and time management skills in their children. He also introduces OrganizedStudent.com, an online tool designed to help students build executive function skills through structured lessons.
Whether your child struggles with time management, organization, motivation, or emotional regulation, this episode provides practical findings and science-backed strategies to support their growth.
📚 Expect to Learn
✅ Why ADHD Kids Struggle with Organization – The science behind executive function delays.✅ Building Executive Function Skills – A step-by-step approach for parents.✅ Time Management & Motivation Hacks – Teaching kids to plan ahead and stay engaged.✅ The Power of Struggle – Why letting kids work through challenges is essential.✅ Screen Time & ADHD – How digital habits impact attention and brain development.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
 [00:01:31] - Introduction to Dr. Damon Korb [00:02:55] - Why ADHD Kids Struggle with Organization [00:04:48] - Introducing OrganizedStudent.com – A Tool for Students [00:06:51] - The Parent’s Role in Building Executive Function Skills [00:11:16] - Time Management Strategies for ADHD Kids [00:14:30] - Keeping ADHD Kids Motivated Without Battles [00:18:30] - Handling Anxiety, Meltdowns & Emotional Dysregulation [00:27:31] - The Impact of Screen Time on Executive Functioning [00:30:55] - Final Advice & Where to Find Dr. Korb’s Resources
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Connect with our guest Dr. Damon Korb:
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-korb-5152ba8/ 🌍Website: https://www.devminds.com/Â
👉Online Tool to build skills in students: Home | Organized StudentsÂ
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👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
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Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Sunday Feb 23, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters--------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive, the host Kate Brownfield sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Matthew Zakreski, an expert in neurodivergence, to discuss ADHD, autism, and how the education system impacts children with different learning needs.
Dr. Zakreski, author of The Neurodiversity Playbook, Sheds light into the neuroscience of ADHD, the impact of reduced recess and unstructured time in schools, and strategies to help children thrive. He explains why traditional school environments can fail neurodiverse kids and how parents can advocate for better support.
Whether you're raising a child with ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergent traits, this episode will give you practical strategies and a fresh perspective on how to support their growth.
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📚 Expect to Learn
✅ The neuroscience behind ADHD and why it’s often misdiagnosed.✅ How reduced recess, art, and unstructured play are harming children’s development.✅ Why executive functioning challenges are common across neurodivergent diagnoses.✅ Strategies to help neurodiverse kids navigate a world built for neurotypicals.✅ How parents can advocate for their child’s learning needs and find supportive environments.
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⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:02:20] – Meet Dr. Matthew Zakreski                                        [00:03:04] – The Science of Neurodiversity                                      [00:07:24] – Diagnosis the ADHD Correctly & it’s Labels                            [00:9:38] – Understanding the “Code”                                          [00:16:30] – The Impact of No Child Left Behind                                  [00:22:31] – Environmental Impact on ADHD & Autism                           [00:25:15] – Advocating for Your Child’s Education                               [00:28:47] – Final Advice for Parents                                           [00:31:35] – Conclusion
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Connect with Dr. Matthew Zakreski:
👉 Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/Â
đź“– His book “The Neurodiversity Playbook” Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Playbook-Neurodivergent-People-Neurotypical/dp/195336036X Â
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Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
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đź”— Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!#ADHDKids #HealthAdvocacy #ParentingTips #Neurodiversity #adhdkidscanthrive
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-----------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, Kate Brownfield from The ADHD Kids Can Thrive interviews Julie Abrams, an occupational therapist (OT) specializing in neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach based in Colorado. Julie brings her expertise in sensory systems to shed light on how sensory challenges manifest in children with ADHD and autism, offering parents actionable strategies to support their kids' development.
Julie Abrams discusses the foundational role of a child's sensory system in everyday activities like being a student, a friend, and just being a child. She breaks down the tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems, explains how sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors present, and provides practical tips for creating sensory-friendly routines at home. Whether you're navigating a recent diagnosis or just curious about supporting your child's sensory needs, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Julie Abrams is an occupational therapist for neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach with over 20 years of experience. Based in Colorado, Julie specializes in helping families understand and manage sensory processing challenges in children with ADHD and autism. Her work focuses on improving fine and gross motor skills, attention, and social engagement, empowering both children and their parents to thrive.
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📚 Expect to Learn
âś” The role of occupational therapy (OT) in supporting children with ADHD and autism.
✔ How sensory systems—tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive—impact a child’s daily life.
âś” Signs that your child may have sensory processing challenges and when to seek professional help.
âś” Practical strategies for managing sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors at home.
âś” How to build a "sensory diet" to support your child's regulation and focus throughout the day.
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⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
📌[00:01:42] – Introduction to Julie Abrams                                    📌[00:02:24] – What is Occupational Therapy (OT) and how it helps ADHD kids      📌[00:05:22] – Understanding the sensory system                               📌[00:08:16] – sensory challenges with ADHD kids and autism.                     📌[00:09:26] – Teaching parents to understand and support their child’s sensory needs.Â
 📌[00:9:50] – The impact of sensory misperceptions on learning and behavior.
📌[00:14:34] – Can sensory systems be strengthened over time?
📌[00:19:47] – Building a sensory diet
📌[00:24:34] – When to seek professional OT support and what to expect in therapy
📌[00:27:07] – The importance of seasonal adjustments in sensory routines
📌[00:29:43] – Advocating for movement and sensory breaks in school settings.
📌[00:31:30] – Final advice for parents raising neurodiverse children
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Connect with our Guest Julie Abrams:👉 Website:https://www.julieabramsot.com/
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Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
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Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, host Kate Brownfield welcomes Dr. Sarah Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist specializing in ADHD. They explore ADHD diagnosis, treatment strategies, emotional regulation, and the impact of screen time on focus. Dr. Cheyette also introduces her upcoming book, the first ADHD guide published by the American Academy of Neurology, set for release in late summer 2025. If you're a parent, caregiver, or someone navigating ADHD, this episode is packed with practical awareness to help you or your child thrive.
Dr. Sarah Cheyette is a pediatric neurologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in ADHD and brain health. She has dedicated her career to helping children and adults understand and manage ADHD. Her upcoming book, published by the American Academy of Neurology, will provide a comprehensive guide to living with ADHD.
📚 Expect to Learn
✔ What ADHD really is—understanding focus, distraction, and brain function.✔ How to properly diagnose ADHD—who to go to and what tests may be needed.✔ The role of emotional regulation and why it’s critical in ADHD management.✔ The impact of screen time on focus and how to create a healthy balance.✔ Actionable strategies to help children and adults with ADHD thrive.
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⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
📌 [00:01:33] - Introduction to Dr. Sarah Cheyette📌 [00:02:41] - Dr. Cheyette’s upcoming book on ADHD📌 [00:04:14] - Common misconceptions about ADHD in the medical community📌 [00:07:29] - How ADHD is diagnosed and where to seek help📌 [00:08:57] - Defining ADHD and understanding focus vs. distraction📌 [00:11:33] - Recognizing ADHD symptoms in children📌 [00:13:12] - The impact of screen time on ADHD and brain function📌 [00:15:16] - The rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses—environmental and diagnostic factors📌 [00:18:01] - Dr Sarah’s Book Comprehension                      📌 [00:19:26] - Emotional dysregulation and its role in ADHD📌 [00:21:26] - Final thoughtsConnect with our Guest Dr. Sarah Cheyette:
👉 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcheyettemd/         🌍Website:  https://sarahcheyette.com/
Follow Host Kate Brownfield at the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
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Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-----------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, host Kate Brownfield sits down with Dr. Christie Rogers-Larke, founder and clinical director of Outside of the Box Therapy in South Carolina. Dr. Christie shares her journey growing up with ADHD, her observations as a therapist, and the inspiration behind her children's book, The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny.
Diagnosed with ADHD in college, Dr. Christie uses her personal experiences and professional expertise to support neurodiverse children and their families. Through practical advice, real-life examples, and the heart-touching story of her book, she emphasizes the importance of understanding, compassion, and recognizing the unique strengths of individuals with ADHD.
This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to support neurodiverse children better and help them thrive in their own way.
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📚 Expect to Learn
How to reframe oppositional behavior as a form of communication.
Strategies for navigating emotional regulation and motivating neurodiverse children.
The importance of focusing on a child's strengths rather than their challenges.
How to build flexibility and structure in parenting without losing balance.
Insights from The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny and its approach to resilience.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:03:25] - Dr. Christie’s ADHD Journey[00:06:57] - The Inspiration Behind the Book[00:08:46] - Parenting Strategies [00:10:46] - The Bunny’s Role in the Story: [00:13:06] - Understanding Oppositional Behaviors[00:15:05] - Social Media & ADHD Awareness[00:17:35] - Final Words of Wisdom[00:20:32] - Conclusion
Connect with our Guest Dr. Christie Rogers- Larke👉 Visit her website: https://www.outsideoftheboxtherapy.com/ 👉 Her Book, “The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny”, is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DFTZ6BWP
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Follow Host Kate Brownfield at the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
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Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------
In this heartfelt episode, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Tony Bellezza and Cassi Bellezza, the founders of the nonprofit Anthony's Way-The Road to Kindness. The foundation was born out of their personal experiences raising a child with ADHD and is dedicated to providing comprehensive, hands-on support for children with ADHD and their families. This episode explores their journey, the struggles faced by ADHD families, and the vision behind their impactful organization.Tony and Cassi are parents, advocates, and the founders of Anthony's Way, a nonprofit organization committed to helping children with ADHD find their passions and thrive. Drawing from their late son Anthony's inspiring legacy of kindness and resilience, they have developed a roadmap to offer hands-on support for ADHD families. Their mission is to provide resources and a community where every child can grow with confidence and kindness.
📚 Expect to Learn
How Tony and Cassi transformed their personal tragedy into a mission to help ADHD families.
The components of a comprehensive care program for children with ADHD.
Practical advice for parents navigating the challenges of ADHD.
The importance of addressing self-esteem in ADHD children early.
How Anthony's Way is reshaping ADHD support through kindness and innovation.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - Opening Remarks[00:02:45] - The Journey Begins[00:06:32] - Early Challenges with ADHD[00:10:25] - Transformative Moments[00:16:17] - A Legacy of Kindness[00:22:48] - Building Anthony's Way[00:27:00] - The Vision for Change[00:30:55] - Kindness in Action[00:34:32] - Words of Wisdom[00:35:50] - Conclusion
Connect with our Guests Tony and Cassi on:
👉 Website:  https://www.roadtokindness.live/Check out more information on their February 13th live donation event and the Walk for Kindness initiative.
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Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
đź”— Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!
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Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------
In this compelling episode of ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Emma Tekstra, a global health consultant, actuary, and author of How to Be a Healthy Human. Emma shares her inspiring journey of advocating for her son's health after he was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD alongside other health challenges. This episode dives into Emma’s practical strategies for improving children’s health and offers hope to parents navigating similar challenges.
Emma Tekstra is an actuary turned global health consultant and author. Her passion for health advocacy began 15 years ago when her son was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD. Armed with her scientific background, Emma pursued alternative approaches to improve her son’s overall health, leading to transformative outcomes. She now champions parental empowerment and proactive health strategies for children and families.
📚 Expect to Learn
The pivotal role of nutrition and gut health in managing ADHD and Asperger’s symptoms.
Practical strategies for parents to advocate for their child’s health with pediatricians and specialists.
The impact of occupational therapy, neurofeedback, and sensory interventions in holistic health plans.
Insights on managing screen time and technology use among neurodiverse children.
How Emma’s experience influenced her two books and her work in global health advocacy.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - The Gut-Brain Connection[00:00:54] - Podcast Introduction[00:02:35] - A Life-Changing Diagnosis[00:05:00] - Connecting the Dots[00:06:35] - Partnering with Pediatricians[00:08:30] - Results from Dietary Changes[00:14:00] - Addressing Mood and Sensitivities[00:16:00] - Therapies and Interventions[00:21:30] - Managing Technology Use[00:26:45] - Teenage Rebellion and Returning to Health[00:28:30] - Writing to Empower Others[00:30:45] - Advice for Parent
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Connect with our Guest Emma Tekstra on:
👉 Website: https://emmatekstra.com/👉 Her Book "How to Be a Healthy Human" - https://emmatekstra.com/books/
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Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
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Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Sunday Jan 12, 2025
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters---------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, host Kate from ADHDKidsCanThrive.com is joined by Jennifer Gay Summers, an esteemed author and writer. Jennifer, a mother of a neurodivergent child, shares her personal journey from initial denial to becoming an empowered advocate for her child.
Jennifer offers valuable insights drawn from her experiences, providing guidance for parents on supporting children with ADHD. The conversation delves into the challenges of addressing sensory processing disorders, the importance of self-advocacy, and how to empower children by focusing on their strengths. Jennifer also discusses the impact of parenting a transgender child and emphasizes the significance of unconditional love in embracing unexpected life journeys.
Join Kate and Jennifer as they discuss overcoming obstacles, educating oneself, and nurturing a supportive environment for ADHD children to thrive. Whether you're starting or already on this journey, this episode aims to bring understanding, advice, and a sense of community to parents navigating similar paths.
Learn more from my guest: https://jennifergaysummers.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Learn more from Kate at: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
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#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupportÂ
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild
Monday Nov 11, 2024
Monday Nov 11, 2024
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters---------------------------------------------------------------------
My guest is Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, a triple-board-certified sleep medicine physician. Dr. Brown obtained sleep medicine training at the University of Pennsylvania and was a faculty member at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia until recently. Join us for an enlightening conversation about the importance of sleep for children with ADHD. Dr. Brown shares her expertise on how prioritizing sleep can help children and adults thrive, achieve optimal health, and reach their fullest potential.
In this episode, Kate and Dr. Brown delve into the common sleep challenges faced by children with ADHD and explore strategies to improve sleep quality. Dr. Brown explains the complex relationship between ADHD and sleep and how behavioral, medical, and 24-hour factors play a role in sleep struggles. The discussion also highlights the impact of a child's sleep issues on family dynamics and the importance of addressing these challenges early on.
Dr. Brown offers practical advice on maintaining healthy sleep habits, such as establishing consistent routines, managing screen time, and improving nutrition. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when necessary and guides parents on supporting their children's sleep journey while caring for their own well-being.
Tune in to discover valuable insights and actionable tips to help your ADHD child—and your family—sleep better and live healthier lives.
Learn more: https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupportÂ
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild
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Monday Nov 04, 2024
Monday Nov 04, 2024
Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters---------------------------------------------------------------------
My guest is Colin Guare, a renowned behavioral analyst and co-author of the bestselling "Smart But Scattered" series. Smart But Scattered: Second Edition, available November 2024. Colin shares his journey growing up with ADHD, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs experienced along the way.
The conversation delves into Colin's work with children and adults, highlighting his passion for motivation and behavior change. He discusses the impact of COVID-19 on children's school readiness and the evolving challenges faced by parents and educators. Kate and Colin explore the benefits and pitfalls of technology, especially for kids with ADHD, and share practical advice for balancing its use.
Colin also introduces the concept of motivational interviewing, offering parents a new approach to communicating with their children. With humor and wisdom, he encourages listeners to embrace the journey of raising children with ADHD, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of life and the importance of celebrating small successes along the way.
Learn more about Colin's books here: https://www.guilford.com/author/Colin-Guare
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupportÂ
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild
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